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Devotees Throng Rishikesh Temples for Mahashivratri, PM Modi Extends Greetings

Devotees gathered in large numbers at Shiva temples across Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, from the early hours to celebrate Mahashivratri. They offered prayers, performed Jalabhishek, and observed fasts, with temples adorned in festive decorations. The festival commemorates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolizing love and power. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings for the occasion, praying for the nation's prosperity.

Key Points: Mahashivratri Celebrations in Rishikesh: Devotees Offer Prayers

  • Devotees queued from 4 am
  • Offerings made at Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
  • Temples decorated with lights and flowers
  • PM Modi extended festive greetings
2 min read

Uttarakhand: Devotees offer prayers at Shiva temples across Rishikesh on Mahashivratri

Mahashivratri celebrated in Rishikesh with devotees offering prayers at Shiva temples. PM Modi extends greetings, highlighting the festival's spiritual significance.

"To all my family members across the country, countless best wishes on Mahashivratri. - Prime Minister Narendra Modi"

Rishikesh, February 15

On the occasion of Mahashivratri, a large gathering of devotees visited various Lord Shiva temples situated across the city of Rishikesh in Uttarakhand from as early as 4:00 am.

The Mahashivratri is celebrated to commemorate the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

Devotees were seen standing in long queues in several temples, including the revered Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, to offer water, milk, fruits, flowers and other sacred offerings to Lord Shiva.

Many observe day-long fasts and also perform special prayers and Jalabhishek, seeking happiness, prosperity and well-being for their families.

All major Shiva temples in the city were decorated with flowers and colourful lights to mark the auspicious occasion.

The atmosphere resonated with chants of "Har Har Mahadev" and "Bam Bam Bhole" as devotees gathered in large numbers to pay obeisance.

From a security standpoint, adequate police personnel were deployed at key temple locations to ensure smooth crowd management and maintain law and order.

Mahashivratri, celebrated across India with great devotion, marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees observe fasts, offer prayers, and participate in night-long vigils to seek the deity's blessings.

According to Hindu mythology, on the night of their wedding, Lord Shiva was escorted to Goddess Parvati's house by a diverse group of Hindu gods, goddesses, animals, and demons. The Shiva-Shakti duo is considered the epitome of love, power, and togetherness. The festival marking their sacred union, Maha Shivratri, is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across India.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Mahashivratri greetings to citizens, praying for their well-being and prosperity.

In an X post, the Prime Minister invoked the blessings of Lord Shiva, emphasising that the divine grace of Lord Shiva brings peace, prosperity, and spiritual strength to individuals and the nation.

"To all my family members across the country, countless best wishes on Mahashivratri. My prayer is that Adidev Mahadev always keeps His grace upon everyone. By His blessings, may all be blessed with well-being and may our Bharatvarsh sit enthroned at the peak of prosperity," PM Modi wrote on X.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
It's heartening to see the celebrations and the security arrangements. Crowds can be overwhelming, so kudos to the Uttarakhand police for managing it smoothly. Jai Bholenath!
A
Aman W
While the devotion is beautiful, I do hope the authorities and temple committees are also focusing on the environmental impact. All the milk and flowers offered need proper, eco-friendly disposal systems. Our faith should also respect Mother Nature.
S
Sarah B
The photos and descriptions are so vibrant! As someone from outside India, it's fascinating to learn about the mythology behind Mahashivratri—the union of Shiva and Parvati as the ultimate power couple. The cultural richness is incredible.
V
Vikram M
Observing the fast today with my family. There's a unique sense of community and calm that comes with it. Reading about the celebrations in Rishikesh, the spiritual capital, adds to the joy. Bam Bam Bhole!
K
Kavya N
The article mentions PM Modi's greetings. It's nice when leaders acknowledge these festivals, but the real story is always the common devotee standing in line for hours with simple faith. That's the true spirit of India.

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